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Retrieving Codes

  1. Perform DIAGNOSTIC CIRCUIT CHECK before diagnosing vehicle using self-diagnostic system. See DIAGNOSTIC CIRCUIT CHECK chart in this article.
  2. Trouble code(s) can be retrieved through either one of the 2 diagnostic switch terminals. See Fig 1 . One is located in the monitor connector in engine compartment and the other one is in the fuse block, located in the passenger compartment.
  3. To retrieve code(s) using the diagnostic terminal in fuse block, insert spare fuse into diagnostic switch terminal. The ECM will toggle the CHECK ENGINE light, flashing code(s).
  4. To retrieve code(s) using the monitor connector in the engine compartment, ground terminal "B" (diagnostic switch terminal) of connector. The ECM will then output self-diagnostic code(s). Both these diagnostic terminals, when grounded, sets the ignition timing to base timing.
  5. If no trouble codes exist, the ECM will flash Code 12. If trouble codes are stored, the lowest numbered code will be given first. Each code will be displayed 3 times. Proceed to CODE CHARTS for diagnosing stored codes.
Fig 1: Identifying Diagnostic Connectors
G90F15771Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
TROUBLE CODE IDENTIFICATION CHART

Code Circuit Affected Probable Cause
12 System Is Normal -
13 Oxygen Sensor Open Circuit
14 Coolant Temp. Sensor High Temp. Indicated
15 Coolant Temp. Sensor Low Temp. Indicated
21 (1) Throttle Switch Both Idle Switch Throttle Switch ON
21 (2) Throttle Position Sensor Signal Voltage High
22 (2) Throttle Position Sensor Signal Voltage Low
23 Manifold Air Temp. Sensor Low Temp. Indicated
24 Vehicle Speed Sensor No Speedometer
25 Manifold Air Temperature High Temp. Indicated
31 MAP Sensor Signal Voltage Low With High Vacuum
32 MAP Sensor Signal Voltage High With Low Vacuum
41 Ignition Signal No Signal
42 (3) Crank Angle Sensor No Signal For 2 Seconds
51 (4) EGR System EGR VSV Inoperative
(1) Manual transmission only.
(2) Automatic transmission only.
(3) ESA ignition system only (without vacuum advance).
(4) California emissions equipped vehicles only.